In its latest research eBook, iCIMS Hire Expectations Institute offers employers guidance on how to attract the best hires by showcasing the best aspects of their corporate culture. “Having a well-defined company culture as part of your recruitment strategy attracts and engages people who will be a good fit for your organization,” said iCIMS Chief Marketing Officer, Susan Vitale. “Our research indicates that employee referrals account for 34% of all hires -- knowing this, it is up to employers to leverage their company culture to attract the best hires, retain their top players, and encourage their ‘A’ performers to refer their friends. This research eBook highlights the elements are the most compelling to job seekers, and in particular, which workplace features attract best-fit talent.”

Through a survey of more than 400 job seekers, iCIMS collected data on which pieces of company culture are important to job seekers when searching for a career match. Some of the key findings from the research eBook include:

Job Seekers Prefer Environments That Encourage Collaboration – Almost 50% of job seekers prefer a “clan” type of culture at their company, which is defined as a collaborative and team-oriented environment. Twenty-one percent of respondents cited a competitive atmosphere as their preferred work environment, with 19% electing to work in a culture that allows for more creative freedom. Only 11% chose a hierarchy culture, which is defined as a controlled environment.

Employees Want Access to Training & Development – When ranking employment perks from most important to least important, job/skills training and development was at the top of the list. Additionally, 50% of employees report insufficient career development and training from their current employers.

Job Seekers Want Their Manager to be Their Mentor – Over 40% of those surveyed say they want to be managed by someone who is more like a coach or a mentor. Approximately 30% prefer a hands-on manager, and 10% of job seekers like a democratic manager.